History was made in Fredonia last week. On Thursday night, Sgt. 1st Class Denise Puskar was sworn in to become the first woman to command the American Legion Post 59.

Puskar has been serving as a member of the U.S. Army for 35 years, and continues her service as an Army recruiter in West Seneca. Through her 35 years of service, she said her biggest challenge was being the one woman in a sea of men, and her getting sworn in as commander of Legion Post 59 is something she couldn’t have seen for herself until now.

“I think this is only the beginning,” she said “I think females have the opportunity and I think this post gives me the opportunity. … The glass ceiling is right in front of me.”

Fredonia’s legion post is well connected to the community. Besides its participation with Boy Scouts, the organization also takes part in a number of events including the prominent Red, White and Blues in the past.

We hope Puskar’s appointment — and enthusiasm — continues to help grow the Legion’s involvement.